SL in Train: Complete Guide to Feature, Fares and Travel Tips
Train travel is the best transportation option in India because of its affordability. Any individual with a reservation SL in train can get a berth to sit and sleep during the night journey. Moreover, it is one of the best options to get a reservation at the lowest price for a long journey.
Indian Railways offers different reservation classes, in which SL (Sleeper Class) is the most popular among travelers. There are different reasons behind the selection of the sleeper class that can be found further.
This Rail Info covers detailed information from the SL means in train to its features, ticket fares, differences in sleeper class and others class. It also includes the pros and cons of the sleeper class and many more.
What is the Meaning of Sl in Train?
When you try to book a ticket or look for seat availability that shows the number of seats in SL, 3AC, and more. How do you ever think about what does SL mean in train? So, you should know that SL means sleeper class on the train. It is a non-ac coach that can be found in long-distance Indian trains.
Key highlights of Sleeper coach may include a non-airconditioned coach with bars and shutter windows. It also offers sleeping berths with 8 berths in one compartment and a shared washroom. It is always affordable for many travelers.
Features of Sleeper Class in Indian Railways
Some of the main features of the sleeper class are discussed below.
Non-AC Coach in Train
The SL coach in train are non-airconditioned coaches but have several windows with bars and shutters. It helps to get fresh air and can be closed manually if required, especially during rain or the winter season.
Types of Seats
The number of seats in the sleeper class ranges from 72-81, especially designed for night travelling. It offers different types of berths such as lower berth in train, middle berth, upper berth in train, side lower berth, side upper berth, and sometimes side middle berth.
Types of Facilities
Passengers can find ceiling fans on head, common charging sockets, and a bathroom on both ends, including a washbasin. You can also find luggage storage under seats. You can check PNR status and book food online via RailMitra.
Train Food Accessibility
Windows with bars allow passengers to get train food at any station where the train halts. It can be possible with RailMitra food in train service that allows customers to order meals from 2500 restaurants at 500+ stations.
You can also read: How to Order Food in Train?
What is SL in Train Ticket Fares?
There are no specific charges for sleeper berths, but are affordable in comparison to other reservation classes such as 3AC, 2AC and 1AC. However, ticket fares depend on different conditions that are listed below.
- Total Journey Distance
- Train Type like Mail/Express, Special, or Premium Trains
- Operational Costs and Policy
- Special Train Charges
On average SL coach in train charges are below but can vary due to certain factors.
- For 200 to 300 Km – About 200
- For 500 to 700 Km – About 400
- For 1000+ Km – About 600 and above
AC Class vs SL in Train
During ticket booking, passengers face a dilemma whether they should book AC class or the sleeper class. So, let’s find out the difference between the AC class and sleeper class in train.
- Fare Difference: Sleeper class has lower fares in comparison to the AC class. It makes it affordable for all the passengers.
- Comfort Level: The AC class has higher comfort because of bedding availability, AC availability, compatible temperature, and less crowd. However, the sleeper class has no such facilities.
- Hygiene: AC class is more hygienic, especially the washroom, due to being less crowded but SL coach in train is more crowded, which lowers the hygiene level.
Pros & Cons of Sleeper Class
Pros of SL in Train
- Widely available
- Most Affordable for Reservation
- Suitable for Overnight Travel
- Natural Ventilation
- Suitable for Short and Medium Distance
Cons of SL Coach in Train
- No Air Conditioning
- More Crowded During Peak Seasons
- Noise with Less Privacy
- Less Hygienic
- No Bedding Facilities
- Less Privacy
You can also read: How to Avoid Middle and Lower Berth in Train? Maintain Privacy
Travel Tips for Traveling in Sleeper Class
Follow the tips to avoid challenges when travelling in the sleeper class.
- Book early to avoid a RAC or a waitlisted ticket.
- Choose the right berth.
- Carry your own bedding.
- Carry your essentials
- Keep your belongings secure.
- Stay hydrated and eat smart.
- Check your PNR status.
- Plan entertainment such as movies, web series, or music playlists
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is SL in Train Means?
Ans. SL in Train means sleeper class in Indian Railways that offers affordable pricing to make reservations and travel for either short or long distances as per requirement.
Q. Is Food Included in Sleeper Class?
Ans. Generally, sleeper coaches do not include food, but special trains may include food. Passengers can book their train food from more than 2500 FSSAI-approved restaurants using RailMitra. It delivers food at more than 500 stations at 7000+ trains across India.
Q. Can I Upgrade from SL to AC?
Ans. Yes, Indian Railways offers options to opt for the auto upgradation in IRCTC. Selecting this option during ticket booking can help to get an upgrade from a sleeper to an AC coach in train.
Q. Can I travel with a waiting list in SL?
Ans. No. According to Indian Railways rules, no one is allowed to travel with waitlisted tickets. If you travel with a ticket status WL in train, even in sleeper class, you will get fined because it’s illegal.
Q. How to get seat allocation in the same coach when travelling together in SL in train?
Ans. If you want to get a seat allocation in same coach, then you should book early, use coach preference, booking under one PNR, request a TTE, or select group booking while making a reservation in SL.
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